While there is a ton of debate over who the top quarterback, running back or outside linebacker is for the 2014 NFL draft, there is zero debate about who the top wide receiver is with former Clemson Tigers receiver Sammy Watkins the consensus pick as the top at his position and he’s hoping to run crazy during the on-field workouts on Sunday.
Sammy Watkins on what he'll run tomorrow: "Looking to run something crazy, hopefully break that combine record."
— Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) February 22, 2014
And he’s got the typical confidence a No. 1 wide receiver has.
Clemson WR @sammywatkins: "What I love is dominating defenses. When I come to the NFL, I think I can get that done.” #swagger
— Taylor Price (@TaylorPrice) February 22, 2014
Even the bookmakers are getting in to the fun as they have a over/under bet on what his time in the 40 will be.
Bovada has props up on 40-yard dash times. Sammy Watkins over/under 4.32 seconds. Clowney 4.50. Michael Sam 4.70. Rich Eisen 6.05.
— Adam Levitan (@adamlevitan) February 21, 2014
If Watkins runs a time in the low 4.3 range then the St. Louis Rams may have to think long and hard about taking the dynamic Watkins with the second overall selection despite their glaring need for an offensive tackle and Watkins saying he has not met with the Rams and wasn’t sure if they’ll be on his schedule.
Watkins says he has already met with the New York Jets who own the No. 18 pick, but barring a significant trade to move up, they will not be in position to take him.
But perhaps the Cleveland Browns could if their quarterback is gone when they’re on the clock with the fourth pick. Watkins says he and Josh Gordon would be a nightmare for defenses if the Browns draft him and they have already had a formal interview with Watkins who says it would be a “great decision” to draft him.
If the Browns pass on him, which would appear likely, then perhaps he slips to the Detroit Lions at No. 10 where Watkins said it “would be a blessing” to be paired opposite Calvin Johnson.
Whoever does take Watkins early in the first round will be getting a player who can make an immediate impact in the same mold of an A.J. Green and Julio Jones.